Full Star Turnout For Coats & Collars Gala Ball
Annual Battersea Dogs & Cat's Home Gala is a vital fundraiser
Celebrating its seventh successful year, the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Gala Ball again attracted a full spread of stars and celebrities, both human and canine.
The annual charity extravaganza was held at the Battersea Evolution last week, with participants treading the red carpet to raise vital funds for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s work in rescuing and re-homing abandoned dogs.
This year’s star line-up, from the world of TV, music, film, sport and fashion, included: Battersea Ambassador Dame Jacqueline Wilson, Hilary Devey, Craig Revel-Horwood, Anthony Head, Nicky Clarke, Kelly Simpkin, Little Mix’s Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Dr Christian Jessen, Rosie Marcel, Sue Barker, photographer Rankin, and Debbie Sledge of the iconic music group Sister Sledge.
The theme of the event this year was ‘Transformation’ to celebrate Battersea’s ability to transform dog’s lives as the Battersea site is being transformed with the construction of new facilities for its animals. Making a very welcome return was the popular ‘Battersea Doggie Guard Of Honour’ – a red-carpet parade of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home’s pooches.
Other highlights of this year’s event included performances by music legend and Roxy Music frontman Bryan Ferry (above), as well as classical cross-over singer Camilla Kerslake.
High profile guests and celebrities also got involved in the opportunity to bid for an array of money-can’t-buy experiences at the event’s exclusive auction.
Speaking about the return of the gala, Claire Horton, Battersea’s Chief Executive said, “The Collars & Coats Gala Ball was a truly unique event, celebrating our animals and raising money to care for the 9,000 dogs and cats that come through our gates, abandoned and terrified each year. Once again, we’re thrilled that so many supporters and friends of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home gave so generously of their time to make the event so successful.’’
Above: Sue Barker: “I love Battersea. It’s a great charity. They do so much great work helping lots of dogs and cats”.
It costs Battersea over £10m to care for its dogs and cats every year, and with no government funding, the Collars & Coats Gala Ball is all about helping to increase awareness of the important work the charity does to offer a second chance in life to thousands of animals. Last year nearly 9,000 dogs and cats needed Battersea’s care and attention to help find them the best possible new homes.
For further information on Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and to pledge donations, please visit www.battersea.org.uk or call 0207 627 7883.
November 18, 2015